UN reports three in four displaced people face severe climate risks

Nearly 90 million forcibly displaced people live in countries facing high exposure to climate hazards, according to a report by the United Nations refugee agency published on Friday. France 24 reported that this figure represents three-quarters of the global total of displaced people. [1]

The United Nations refugee agency issued the report days before the COP31 climate conference in Turkey, urging immediate action to protect vulnerable populations. France 24 reported that Anton Leis Garcia, an assistant high commissioner at the agency, stated refugees face a double injustice from displacement and climate risks. [1]

Modern climate change includes ongoing increases in global average temperatures and broader impacts on the climate system. The primary driver of modern warming is human activity, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial practices that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. [2]

The UN agency called for urgent action to address the severe risks linked to a warming planet for displaced populations ahead of the upcoming international summit. [1]